A home’s windows can make or break its curb appeal. Upgrading old, inefficient windows can help prevent high utility bills and overworking of your HVAC system.
Window installation companies offer a wide variety of styles to choose from. For example, classic double-hung windows provide great service and timeless aesthetics. While energy-efficient triple pane windows offer endless comfort. Enhanced security features like reinforced locks are another popular choice.
Energy Efficiency
Windows account for 25%-30% of a home’s energy loss, but high-quality windows offer better insulation, cutting costs and improving comfort. Choose a window replacement company that offers a variety of frames and glass options to suit Scott Louisiana’s climate and homeowner preferences. Look for energy-efficient features such as low e glass, argon gas fill and composite fiberglass frames that expand and contract at the same rate as window glass for stability.
ENERGY STAR windows have superior insulating properties, significantly cutting home heating and cooling costs during hot Scott summers and cold winters. The windows also protect interior furniture and fabrics from harmful UV rays. Look for ENERGY STAR windows with double glazing, a low-E coating and quality frame materials to minimize air leakage.
For an even greater boost in energy efficiency, consider a triple-pane window with spaces filled with argon gas. However, remember that even the most efficient windows require professional installation according to manufacturer instructions to achieve the advertised efficiencies.
Aesthetics
Besides promoting energy efficiency, replacement windows should enhance the aesthetics of your home. Fortunately, there are various window options to choose from that will meet this need. Double hung windows are a good example. They can be opened from the top or bottom, allowing fresh air to circulate in your house. Moreover, they blend well with different architectural styles.
Casement windows are another window option that merges aesthetics with functionality. They are hinged on their side and open outward, enabling unobstructed views and maximum ventilation.
Bay and bow windows offer a dramatic look that will make your home stand out from the rest. Comprised of three or more sash windows that project outward from the structure, they provide expansive views and extra square footage to your living space. They are also available in a variety of framing materials to suit your style preferences. Moreover, they feature high-performance glass that provides exceptional energy savings, especially in Lafayette’s hot summers and chilly winters.
Security
Window replacement offers homeowners a great opportunity to upgrade their home’s security. While the locks that come with many windows are effective at keeping out intruders, a smart burglar can easily bypass these simple pry-proof mechanisms. To keep burglars from gaining easy access to your residence, consider installing add-on locks or a privacy window with a shatter-resistant film.
A smarter choice is a double or triple pane window with insulating layers of air or gas between the glass. These windows provide high energy efficiency and reduce noise levels. Additionally, they have proven to be a sturdy option for homes in hurricane-prone areas. Moreover, choosing a window that is certified by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) ensures that it meets quality standards. Many reputable companies in Lafayette carry NFRC certifications, making it easy to find the right window for your home. It’s also essential to check if a window has been tested for safety. This will help ensure that children and pets stay safe in case of a break-in.
Warranty
Some manufacturers offer warranties that guarantee the longevity of your new windows. However, this type of warranty usually includes limitations and exclusions that limit the coverage to a certain monetary amount or time period.
To get the most out of your warranty, make sure you collect the serial numbers for each product before submitting any claims. You will also need a copy of your contract or purchase receipt. These documents will help you expedite the process and prevent misunderstandings and miscommunications during the claim submission process.
If you choose vinyl windows, you can count on them to last for years and resist rot and fading. They also provide excellent insulation that will keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Vinyl windows are also available in double-pane construction, offering enhanced energy efficiency and reduced outside noise. You can find the NFRC energy performance ratings for each window on their product label.